The Department of Geography, Manipur University observed World Wetlands Day 2026 today at the lakeshore of Loktak Lake, in keeping with the global theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”.
The observance aimed to create awareness on wetland conservation through direct community engagement and to gain insights into local perspectives on the preservation and restoration of Loktak Lake. Teachers and students of the Department of Geography took part in the programme.
As part of the observance, faculty members and students interacted with local elders and community leaders residing around the lake. Oinam Rajen, Secretary of the All Loktak Lake Area Fishers Union Manipur, spoke on the deteriorating ecological condition of Loktak Lake and its adverse impact on the livelihoods of local communities. He stated that pollution sources affecting the lake now include not only solid waste and plastics but also biomedical waste and microplastics, which have been detected in lake organisms.
A lakeshore cleanliness drive was also carried out as part of the programme, during which recyclable plastic bottles and other waste materials were collected and disposed of at designated collection centres.